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HKBN Ltd. is potentially facing a bidding war as I Squared Capital has made a non-binding offer to acquire the Hong Kong-listed broadband provider. This follows a previous offer from China Mobile, with discussions ongoing regarding the proposal's terms, including price. Trading in HKBN shares will resume on Wednesday.
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As of December 1, 2024, China has reinstated and expanded its visa-free entry policy for travelers from nine countries, including Japan, allowing stays of up to 30 days. This move aims to boost tourism and international exchanges, reflecting a strategic shift towards greater openness.
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Scotland concluded their Autumn Nations Series with a 27-13 victory over Australia at Murrayfield. The win marked a significant achievement for Gregor Townsend's side, showcasing their potential ahead of the Six Nations. Despite previous mixed results, the Scots demonstrated cohesion and experience, with standout performances from key players.
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A weasel has been stealing shoes from a kindergarten in Fukuoka, Japan, leading to confusion among staff and parents. Security cameras revealed the furry thief, which took 15 shoes before being caught on video. The incident has sparked relief and laughter among the children and staff, who have since secured the remaining shoes.
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A surge in matcha demand, fueled by social media, has led to significant shortages and price hikes for popular brands. Producers in Japan have raised prices by up to 40%, and some suppliers are pausing production. Consumers are feeling the impact, with limited availability expected until the next harvest.
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Recent developments highlight the potential economic fallout from President Trump's proposed tariffs on Chinese goods, which could reach up to 60%. Analysts warn of significant impacts on both the US and Chinese economies, with businesses preparing for a new wave of trade tensions. The situation remains fluid as companies assess their strategies.
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Taiwan's President William Lai has embarked on a week-long diplomatic tour of the Pacific, visiting the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau. His itinerary includes controversial stopovers in Hawaii and Guam, which have drawn sharp criticism from China, viewing Lai as a separatist leader. The trip aims to strengthen Taiwan's international ties amid increasing Chinese pressure.
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Recent discoveries of oarfish along California's coast have reignited discussions about their mythical association with natural disasters. With only a handful of sightings documented, researchers are eager to study these elusive creatures to understand their biology and potential links to seismic activity.
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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has intensified his rhetoric against the U.S., accusing it of fostering global chaos. His statements come amid ongoing military cooperation with Russia and a commitment to bolster North Korea's nuclear capabilities. Relations with the U.S. remain strained, with no signs of renewed diplomacy following Trump's election.
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Following a recent incident involving a V-22 Osprey, lawmakers have urged the Pentagon to ground the entire fleet due to ongoing safety concerns. The aircraft has been linked to numerous accidents, prompting calls for a thorough review of its design and operational protocols.
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Defense chiefs from the US, Japan, Philippines, South Korea, and Australia met in Laos to reinforce security commitments in the Indo-Pacific amid rising tensions with China. The discussions focused on maintaining strong alliances and addressing concerns over China's military assertiveness, particularly regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea.
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As Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House, his administration is considering a direct approach to North Korea's Kim Jong-un. This comes amid escalating tensions and North Korea's military cooperation with Russia, raising questions about the potential for renewed diplomatic efforts.
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England's rugby team, struggling with five consecutive losses, faces Japan on November 24, 2024. Tom Curry returns after a concussion, raising safety concerns. Asher Opoku-Fordjour is set for his Test debut, while George Furbank replaces Freddie Steward at full-back. Head coach Steve Borthwick emphasizes the need for a strong performance.
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Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have been nominated for the FIFPRO World XI, despite not playing in Europe. The shortlist includes 26 players, with a significant representation from Manchester City and Real Madrid. The final team will be announced on December 9, 2024.
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England's rugby team concluded a challenging autumn series with a 59-14 victory over Japan, ending a five-match losing streak. Despite positive performances, the team faced criticism for missed opportunities against top-tier opponents. Coach Steve Borthwick and players reflect on lessons learned as they prepare for the upcoming Six Nations.
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The US Department of Commerce has announced new export restrictions targeting around 200 Chinese companies, including Huawei's partners. This move escalates the ongoing tech rivalry between the US and China, with significant implications for the semiconductor industry and global supply chains.
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On Black Friday, workers across 20 countries protested against Amazon, demanding better wages, working conditions, and union rights. The 'Make Amazon Pay' campaign highlights ongoing labor abuses and environmental concerns, with significant participation expected in India, Germany, and the US.
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Agility Robotics' CEO Peggy Johnson predicts humanoid robots will soon be commonplace in workplaces, addressing labor shortages. South Korea leads in robot adoption, while China rapidly increases its robot workforce, reflecting a global shift towards automation in various industries.
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Global markets showed mixed reactions as inflation data from Japan indicated rising prices, impacting investor sentiment. The Nikkei 225 fell while U.S. futures and oil prices rose. South Korea's Kospi remained unchanged after a rate cut, reflecting ongoing economic pressures.
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A new U.S. rule allows kidney and liver transplants from HIV-positive donors to HIV-positive recipients, significantly reducing wait times and expanding the organ donor pool. This change aims to improve health outcomes for transplant recipients with HIV, as supported by recent research. Meanwhile, Hong Kong faces a severe decline in heart donations.
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A ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect today, following intense fighting that has resulted in thousands of casualties and widespread displacement. The agreement, mediated by the U.S. and France, mandates a 60-day truce, during which Israeli forces will withdraw from southern Lebanon and Hezbollah will cease its armed presence near the border.
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A TikTok trend dubbed 'pink tote lid moments' has emerged, highlighting experiences of emotional and physical abuse among children. Originating from a viral video, users are sharing their stories, prompting discussions on parenting and mental health. Experts emphasize the importance of acknowledging these experiences for better understanding and support.
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Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba is expected to face intensified pressure from opposition parties.
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Following Australia's new law penalizing social media platforms for underage accounts, Japan is debating similar measures. This comes after a tragic incident involving a teenager's suicide that resulted in the death of a pedestrian, raising concerns about social media's impact on youth mental health.
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Dong Yuyu, a prominent Chinese journalist, was sentenced to seven years in prison for espionage after being detained while dining with a Japanese diplomat in 2022. His conviction has drawn international condemnation and highlights the tightening grip of the Chinese government on media and foreign relations.
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South Korea's government boycotted a memorial service in Japan for wartime laborers at the Sado mines, marking a setback in improving bilateral relations. The decision stems from unresolved diplomatic tensions, particularly regarding Japan's acknowledgment of forced labor during its colonial rule over Korea.
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The International Tennis Federation has announced that Italy will host the Davis Cup Final 8 from 2025 to 2027, with Bologna as the venue for the 2025 tournament. Italy, led by Jannik Sinner, recently won its second consecutive title in Malaga, Spain.